Doctors prescribe this potent painkiller to patients experiencing moderate to severe pain. It is available in slow-release and quick-acting versions. It is even more potent than hydrocodone at blocking pain and promoting calmness. It can be used to treat both acute and chronic pain, but only under a doctor's supervision. Oxycodone is prescribed by doctors to patients who experience pain following surgery, pain from injuries including broken bones, pain from cancer, and chronic pain that doesn't go away with other medications.